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Title: A Non-Exhaustive Search Algorithm to Identify Distribution Grid Operational Topology

Conference · · 2019 North American Power Symposium (NAPS)

Distribution grid, in general, is constructionally loopy but a radially operated network. Opening and closing of suitable tie-switches allow transition from one topology to another. Identifying the operational topology of a distribution system is essential for accurate control actions. This paper proposes a non-exhaustive search approach to detect the operational topology of the distribution feeder by estimating the switch statuses. In this work, a mixed-integer linear programming approach is proposed that finds the correct operational topology by identifying the system load demand and power flow variables that are closest to the corresponding measured values. The problem is constrained by distribution power flow and radial structure of the feeder. This formulation allows the inclusion of errors in power/line flow measurements making it more suitable for a practical distribution system. The proposed approach finds the correct operational topology without exhaustively searching for all possible topologies. We thoroughly validate the accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed approach in identifying correct operational topology using IEEE 123-node feeder with the help of numerous simulations studies. It is observed that the approach performs well even at very high percentages of load and flow measurement errors.

Research Organization:
Washington State Univeristy
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
OE0000878
OSTI ID:
1810774
Journal Information:
2019 North American Power Symposium (NAPS), Conference: 2019 North American Power Symposium (NAPS), Wichita, KS, USA , 13-15 Oct. 2019
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English